Press Release
October 13, 2025 • 1 min read
GOAL welcomes the commencement of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which began last Friday, 10th Oct, marking a pivotal moment in efforts to alleviate the horrific human suffering and restore humanitarian access. The release of hostages and the scaling up of humanitarian aid operations are critical steps toward restoring some hope to the affected populations.
Today, OCHA (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) confirmed approval for the entry of approximately 190,000 tons of essential humanitarian supplies into Gaza, including food, shelter materials, medical supplies, and other life-saving items. With winter fast approaching, shelter materials need to be prioritised and on a significant scale.
In welcoming the ceasefire and surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza, Colin Lee, GOAL’s Director of Programme and Operations, said,
“This ceasefire represents a significant opportunity to end the unconscionable suffering endured by civilians in Gaza. It must be upheld and leveraged to ensure the immediate and unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid under a principled, UN-led mechanism. Every delay in aid delivery risks further loss of life.”
“The cessation of hostilities must also serve as a foundation for a sustainable and just peace, one that guarantees safety, dignity, and security for both populations, and contributes to broader Middle East regional stability, including in Southern Lebanon.” continued Colin Lee.
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Human toll of Gaza conflict.
Since the escalation of conflict in October 2023, over 67,000 lives have been lost, including 1,722 humanitarian and health workers and 200 journalists. More than 168,000 individuals have been injured, among them 3,00 children who have lost one or more limbs.
Humanitarian relief efforts undertaken by GOAL in Gaza.
In response to the conflict, GOAL partnered with Palestinian NGO Taawon in late 2023 to deliver emergency assistance. GOAL has supported the provision of food, healthcare, and essential services to families who have lost everything. In its latest intervention, Taawon is distributing urgently needed food parcels to displaced families residing in informal shelters across central and southern Gaza, which represents a vital effort to combat acute hunger, malnutrition, and economic devastation.
